My mom took my dog out for a walk in the neighbourhood and when she came home she told me that the dog got into unfriendly physical contact with another dog, we see this couple very often with their dogs but don't know exactly where they live. Both dogs were on leash.

Then I notice there was little blood on his ear and we noticed that it's a bite wound, nothing major. He wouldn't let me touch his ear but I was able to clean it with warm water.

The problem is that he is 1.5 month overdue for Rabbies shot, last shot he has was in March of 2011. I am visiting my vet tomorrow to get the wound checked out. Should I be concerned about rabbies?

hazelrunpack

April 30th, 2012, 11:42 AM

How old is your dog, samguan? If he's had an adult dose of the rabies vaccine, he's likely still protected by it. Next time you see the other owners, explain the situation and ask for copies of their dogs' rabies certificates. If their dogs are also vaccinated, then rabies should not be a concern.

But definitely talk to your vet about it when you go tomorrow. He'll be able to check which type of vaccine your dog received and the manufacturer's notes on how long the product will protect the animal.

Welcome to the board, samguan!

samguan

April 30th, 2012, 11:48 AM

My dog is a mini schnauzer. He is 5 years old and has had many Rabies shot before.

Hopefully the vet visit tomorrow will be ok.

http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp251/samguan/jackywall.jpg

CsqU4r3d

April 30th, 2012, 11:54 AM

I think you should be ok ... here in Alberta and most states in the U.S. you no longer have to get a rabies shot yearly, it is now every three years. Studies have shown that the rabies vaccine provides protection for 3 years possibly as long as 7. In fact yearly may even put your dog at a higher risk for vaccine related problems.

hazelrunpack

April 30th, 2012, 11:59 AM

He's a cutie, samguan!! :lovestruck:

Choochi

April 30th, 2012, 12:00 PM

You might want to read this recent thread:
http://pets.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=80893

I would not be worried about vaccinations after a dog bite. I would be more worried about any potential behavioural fall out or the wound itself if it's serious and in this case it sounds like a fairly minor scrap scrape.